GB2618594A

GB2618594A - Truss connector brace

Info

Publication number: GB2618594A
Application number: GB2206945.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Frederiksen Henrik; Moldrup Hansen Jacob
Original assignee: Simpson Strong Tie AS
Current assignee: Simpson Strong Tie AS
Priority date: 2022-05-12
Filing date: 2022-05-12
Publication date: 2023-11-15
Also published as: GB202206945D0; WO2023217999A1

Abstract

A truss connector brace (1, fig 1A) for erecting roof trusses by sliding the brace into connection with a truss comprising a first end bracket (2, fig 1A), a second end bracket (3, fig 1A) and an intermediate member (4, fig 1A) connecting the brackets. Each bracket comprises a connecting section 5 for joining the bracket to an intermediate member, a first mounting section 6 having opposing sides 7, 8 defining a first mounting plane and a second mounting section 9 connected to the first and having opposing sides 10, 11 defining a second mounting plane arranged in an angle different from 0 in relation to the first mounting plane. The brackets also have a positioning section 12 connected to the second mounting section having first and second positioning sides 13, 14 and a tip section 15 comprising a tip point 16 in a plane parallel to the first mounting plane. Further disclosed is a system for erecting trusses for a roof structure using the brace and a method of manufacturing the end brackets.

Description

TRUSS CONNECTOR BRACE

Descriotion The present invention relates to a truss connector brace for facilitating erecting roof trusses by sliding the brace into connection with a truss. Moreover, the present invention relates to a system for erecting trusses for a roof structure and to a method of manufacturing the end brackets.

Truss braces are known for keeping trusses in position when installed. Typically, the truss braces are mounted by a worker when the trusses are in their up-right position where the worker e.g. a carpenter needs to climb the trusses in order to install the braces. For the carpenter, this implies working high above the ground, and hence implies a serious risk of accidents for the worker, and thus this also requires a plurality of safety measures that take time to implement and therefore are relatively costly.

Other systems for installing trusses are known in which the system comprises either temporary connectors or braces or systems with complex locking mechanisms. However, these systems are mounted onto the trusses in order to ease the installation or erection of the trusses but need to be removed after installation, as the shape and size of the systems typically extend beyond the mounting surface of the trusses and would therefore interfere with the subsequent installation of the roof of the structure (e.g. house, building, etc.). Typically, these systems are intended for holding the trusses in a predetermined distance during the installation process in order to provide the correct spacing for the trusses during installation. Subsequently, the worker will install truss braces to permanently join trusses in their correct position. When the permanent truss braces are installed, the worker has to remove the temporary braces to complete the erection of the trusses.

Hence, the workers need to bring specific connector braces of the correct length to the site. Therefore, the connectors are bought for a specific construction requiring a specific distance between the trusses and hence a specific length of brace instead of having the connector braces in stock in larger quantity.

Therefore, the use of a temporary system to erect trusses will ease some of the process of erecting trusses but will require an increase in manhours to be able to use the system. It is well known that the availability of workers and/or material is limited, it is important to facilitate the most efficient working process for the workers as well as limit the use of material.

The present invention seeks to address the above disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art. More specifically, the present invention provides an improved truss connecter brace that facilitates a safer working environment for the carpenter during installation while at the same time making it possible to permanently support the strength and integrity of the roof structure, thereby reducing the time needed to erect trusses for a building.

The truss connector brace according to the present invention may be adjustable in overall length in an easy manner.

Numerous other aspects, advantages and features, which will become evident from the below description, are addressed by a truss connector brace in accordance with the present invention, such as facilitating erecting roof trusses by sliding the brace into connection with a truss.

In a first aspect of the present invention, the truss connector brace comprises: - a first end bracket, - a second end bracket, and -an intermediate member connecting the first end bracket to the second end bracket, wherein each of the first and second bracket comprises: - a connecting section arranged forjoining the end bracket to an intermediate member, -a first mounting section having a first side and an opposing second side, the first and second side defining a first mounting plane, - a second mounting section connected to the first mounting section, the second mounting section having a first side and a second side, the first and second side defining a second mounting plane arranged in an angle different from 0° in relation to the first mounting plane, and - a positioning section connected to the second mounting section, the positioning section having a first positioning side and a second positioning side and a tip section comprising a tip point arranged in a tip plane the tip plane being parallel to the first mounting plane, the tip plane being arranged a distance from the first mounting plane, and the tip section being arranged a distance from the second mounting plane.

In this way, the trusses are erected in a way where the workers erecting the truss do not need to crawl toward the tip of the trusses in order to secure the trusses. The mounting sections ensure that the truss connector brace connects firmly to the truss. The positioning section facilitates that the trusses can be installed without the need for the worker to climb the truss to guide the truss connector brace in place, i.e. connecting a first truss to a second truss. This is due to the fact that the positioning section, during installation of the trusses, ensures that the truss connector brace is automatically brought into the correct position, i.e. where the mounting sections are in contact with the truss to keep the trusses in place.

The positioning section facilitates that the free end bracket of the truss connector brace, i.e. the end bracket to be brought in contact with an already installed truss is guided so as to achieve that the mounting sections are brought into contact with the installed truss. This is achieved both when sliding the trusses in place as well as pivoting the trusses in place.

The truss may either be erected in a pivoting way or in a sliding manner and will, when brought to a fully up-right position, be locked to another truss when using the truss connector brace according to the invention. Depending on the size of the truss, it could be the workers that directly manually handling the truss by pivoting or sliding or the truss could be lifted by a crane. In either case, the truss connector brace will automatically ensure that the truss is firmly secured to the previous truss when the free end of the truss connector brace is slid over and ultimately connected to the previous truss. The position of the tip section below the general plane of the first connection section facilitates that the truss connector brace may be left on the trusses and become a part of the permanent structure of the roof. This is possible due to the fact that although the truss connector brace according to the invention facilitates the automatic interlocking between two trusses directly during installation/erection the tip section is not in risk of damaging the roof element to be mounted on top of the trusses. This could be insulation, roof underlay of various kinds or vapor barrier depending on the specific build-up of the roof. Over time, a roof underlay of fabric or plastic is in high risk of being broken if the tip section of the roof underlay is in contact with the roof underlay. Since the overall properties of the roof underlay are typically highly dependent of the roof underlay to be a barrier without holes, it is vital that there is no risk of such holes to arise over time. The truss connector brace of the present invention needs no adjustment after installation of the truss using the truss connector brace. Since the truss connector brace is already from the very start connected to one of the two trusses it is connecting, a high safety level is achieved during the installation process and also for the time after the actual erecting process. Hence, high safety is achieved for both the workers during erection as well as for the integrity of the roof structure in the time after the installation.

This means that the truss connector brace may be a permanent connector brace, which means that it does not have to be removed after the brace has been installed. The truss connector brace of the present invention contributes to the overall stability of the permanent structure and adds strength to the permanent structure. This reduces the erection time of the trusses as the there are no temporary elements that have to be removed and the truss brace may be secured in its position subsequently to the erection of the trusses.

Moreover, the tip point of the positioning section may be arranged in a tip plane the tip plane being arranged parallel to first mounting plan a distance from the first mounting plane, the distance being measured perpendicular to the first mounting plane in a direction parallel to the second mounting plane and along the second mounting section.

In this way, it is achieved that the tip plane is positioned below the top surface i.e. first surface of the mounting section. Hence, it is achieved that the tip is in no risk of damaging any underlay, hence securing a long durability of the roof.

Furthermore, the tip point in the mounted situation of the truss connector brace may be positioned in a plane 0.1-50 mm, or more preferred 0.5-30 mm or even more preferred 1-10 mm from the first mounting plane measured perpendicular to the first mounting plane.

In this way, it is achieved that the tip of the positioning section does not damage the material of the roof structure e.g. isolation, fibre or other covering materials.

Hence, it is possible to use both the truss connector bracket during the installation of the trusses as well as an integrated member of the permanent roofing structure.

In addition, the second mounting section may be arranged in an angle of 85-95° in relation to the plane of the first mounting section.

In this way, it is achieved that the second mounting section is firmly gripping around the truss. Furthermore, it is achieved that the level of slip or play in the structure may be adjusted to meet the specific requirements.

Moreover, the connection section may further comprise at least a first positioning wall portion arranged substantially perpendicular to the second side of the connection section.

In this way, it is achieved that the longitudinal axis of the intermediate member is positioned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the end bracket(s).

Having just one side wall may facilitate intermediate members of a width broader and smaller than the width of the connection section.

Additionally, the second end bracket may be identical to the first end bracket.

In this way, it is achieved that the end brackets are manufactured on the same machine using the exact same tools. Thereby, manufacturing costs are reduced, and the risk of wrong assembly on site is eliminated.

Also, the intermediate member may be made of a different material than the end brackets.

In this way, it is achieved that the intermediate member may be formed and adjusted directly on site e.g. wood, wood fibre, plastic or similar product adaptable in length on the construction site. Not only is it possible, but the workers on site will always have the necessary tools to carry out the adjustment, since the tools are common tools. Hence, the logistics is simplified in order to have truss connector braces in the correct lengths directly at the site. It is to be understood that metal of different properties may also be considered as a "different material". This may e.g. be the case if a metal battens are used as intermediate member.

Further, the end brackets each may be formed of one piece of galvanised metal i.e. formed of a single piece of galvanised metal.

In this way, it is possible to achieve a strong end bracket which is still very resilient against different weather conditions.

Moreover, the positioning section may be slanted, follow a curvature or follow a combination of a slanted and curved outline in relation to the second mounting section.

In this way, it is achieved that the positioning section has properties that supports an erection of the truss by sliding the truss in position on the bearing until the free end bracket is slid on the previous truss i.e. the truss already installed/the previous truss. Furthermore, the combination of the slanted and curved outline of the positioning section supports that a truss may also be erected by pivoting the truss to be erected around a point on the bearing e.g. pivoting around a positioning bracket used as a stop, and thereby, when positioning the free end bracket it will be brought in contact with the previous truss following a path of a part of a circle.

In addition, the connection section and the first and/or second mounting section may comprise holes arranged to receive fastening means such as screws or nails. 20 By having holes in the connection section it is achieved that the connection section and hence the end bracket can be connected firmly to the intermediate member. Furthermore, by having holes in the mounting section(s), it is achieved that the first and/or second mounting section may be affixed to the truss. In this way, the end bracket is connected to the truss, and thereby the truss connector brace is firmly connected to the truss.

Furthermore, the tip point of the positioning section in the mounted state of the truss connector brace may be arranged a distance from the both the first mounting plane and the second mounting plane.

In this way, it is achieved that the tip point is positioned at a point facilitating that the positioning section supports easily sliding the end bracket in place. In particular, ensuring that the tip point is lifted to an extend to ensure that the positioning section at the very beginning of the sliding process is capable of sliding on the truss on which the free end bracket should be installed.

Also, the connection section and/or the first mounting section may comprise embossed areas.

In this way, it is achieved that the connection section and/or the first mounting section is more resistant to bending. Hence, it is possible to control the line where the bracket is flexible.

Moreover, the second side of the connection section and/or the first side of the mounting section may comprise a stop for positioning the intermediate member in relation to the end bracket.

In this way, it is achieved that the space between the end of the intermediate member facing the second mounting section is sufficient for receiving the full width of the truss. Having a stop eliminates the need for the worker to measure, thereby minimising the risk for wrong measuring. The stop may be a projection pressed from the connection section or the first mounting section. The stop may be a projection in form of a hinged punched part.

In an embodiment the at least one positioning wall may comprise a stop. In this way it is achieved that the intermediate member is positioned in the desired distance from the second surface of the second mounting section. Thereby, a truss is to be inserted between the end i.e. the end-face of the intermediate member and the second surface of the second mounting section.

Additionally, the present invention also relates to a system for erecting trusses for a roof structure, the system comprising the truss connecting brace, wherein the system further comprises one or more positioning brackets arranged to position the heel of the truss during the erection of the truss.

In this way it is achieved that, that the movement of the truss is easily controlled during installation of a truss. In particular when erecting trusses by pivoting the trusses it is facilitated that the workers just need to pivot the truss since the heel of the truss is stopped by the positioning bracket.

Finally, the present invention further relates to a method of manufacturing the end brackets wherein the manufacturing process is carried out in a multistage punching process.

The invention and its many advantages will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, which for the purpose of illustration show some non-limiting embodiments and in which Fig. 1A shows a perspective view of a truss connector brace according to the invention, Fig. 1B shows in a sideview an end bracket connected to a truss and an intermediate member, Figs. 1C and 1D show a perspective view of an end bracket according to the invention, Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of two truss connector braces mounted on a truss, Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a roof structure where a truss is being erected in a pivoting manner, Fig. 4 shows a side view of the pivoting erection situation shown in Fig. 3, Figs. 5A-5F show in five steps the process of erecting a truss in a pivoting manner using a truss connector brace according to the invention, Figs. 6A-6G show in 6 steps the process of erecting a truss in a sliding manner using a truss connector brace according to the invention, and Fig. 7 shows in a perspective view a roof structure having four installed trusses kept in mutual position by a number of truss connector braces according to the invention.

All the figures are highly schematic and not necessarily to scale, and they show only those parts which are necessary in order to elucidate the invention, other parts being omitted or merely suggested.

Fig. 1A show a truss connecter brace 1, and Figs. 1B-1D show details of the truss connector brace 1.

Fig. 1A shows a truss connector brace 1 for facilitating erecting roof trusses by sliding the brace 1 into connection with a truss, the truss connector brace 1 comprising a first end bracket 2, a second end bracket 3 and an intermediate member 4 connecting the first end bracket 2 to the second end bracket 3. A longitudinal direction LD and a transverse direction TD of the truss connector brace 1 are shown in Fig. 1A. The longitudinal and transverse direction LD, TD are applicable for both the truss connector brace 1, the intermediate member 4 and each of the end brackets 2, 3. Furthermore, in Fig. 1A it is shown that the first and second end brackets 2, 3 are identical. Manufacturing higher numbers of the same product reduces the manufacturing costs and eliminates the risk of using a wrong end bracket as they are identical. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1A, the intermediate member 4 is made of a different material than the end brackets 2, 3.

The intermediate member 4 may be made of wood e.g. a lathe or similar. However, it is to be understood that the intermediate member may be made from a large variety of materials including wood, metal, plastic or composites.

In Figs. 1B-1D, it is shown that each of the first and second brackets 2, 3 comprises a connecting section 5 arranged for joining the end bracket to the intermediate member (not shown in Figs. 1B and 1C) and a first mounting section 6 having a first side 7 and an opposing second side 8, the first and second side 7, 8 defining a first mounting plane FMP. Further, a second mounting section 9 connected to the first mounting section 6, the second mounting section 9 having a first side 10 and a second side 11, the first and second side 10, 11 defining a second mounting plane SMP arranged in an angle different from 0° in relation to the first mounting plane FMP. Further, the end bracket comprises a positioning section 12 connected to the second mounting section 9, the positioning section 12 having a first positioning side 13 and a second positioning side 14 and a tip section 15 comprising a tip point 16 arranged in a tip plane TP, the tip plane TP being parallel to the first mounting plane FMP, the tip plane TP being arranged a distance dl from the first mounting plane FMP, and the tip section 15 being arranged a distance d2 from the second mounting plane SMP. The planes FMP and SMP are planes positioned between the first and second side of the respective sections 6, 9. By this definition, the section may have embossments or imperfect surfaces and still a general plane is to be deducted.

It is shown in Fig. 1B that the connection section 5 and the first mounting section 6 comprise holes 19 arranged to receive fastening means e.g. screws or nails. In an embodiment, the second mounting section 9 may also comprise holes 19 for screws or nails (only shown in Fig. 1D). Figs. 1A-1D show that the end bracket comprises embossed areas 18 for stiffening the end bracket. In the shown embodiment, the connection section 5 and the first mounting section 6 comprises the embossed areas 18. In other embodiments, it is to be understood that the embossed areas may also be limited to either the connection section or the mounting section. The embossed areas 18 increases the resistance to bending of the section(s) comprising the embossment.

It is shown in Fig. 1C that the positioning section may be considered to have a general positioning plane GPP defined by the full extent of the positioning section 12. This means that the tip section 15 and the rest of the positioning section, also if arranged at an angle to each other, may define a general (common) plane named the general positioning plane. In Fig. 1D, it is shown that the tip section 15 is arranged at an angle of approximately 45° in relation to the rest of the positioning section, hereby defining a tip section plane TSP. It is to be understood that in an embodiment the tip section 15 may also be substantially even with the rest of positioning section, i.e. that the positioning section 12 is either substantially flat or has a uniform radius along the length of the positioning section. It is shown that the second mounting plane SMP and the first mounting plane FMP have a common line of intersection in space. Similar, the general positioning plane GPP has a common line of intersection with the first mounting plane FMP and the second mounting plane SMP.

Fig. 1D shows a sideview of an end bracket 2 in a mounted situation, i.e. the end bracket 2 connected to an intermediate member 4, e.g. a slate or similar pieces of wood. The end bracket 2 is positioned over the truss 20 and hence connects the truss 20 and the truss connector brace 1 (only one end bracket shown). It is shown that the intermediate member 4 is connected to the connection section 5 of end bracket by screws 26. Furthermore, in this installed position of the truss connector brace 1 the end bracket is secured to the truss 20 by a screw 26 inserted in a hole (not shown) in the mounting section. The screws 26 are inserted in the holes 19 (not shown). It is shown that the positioning section 12 comprising the tip section 15 is slanted in relation to the second mounting section. It is to be understood that in an embodiment the positioning section may also follow a curved outline or follow a combination of a slanted and curved outline.

In Fig. 1D, it is furthermore shown that in this embodiment the tip point 16 of the positioning section is arranged in a plane different from both the first and the second mounting plane FMP, SNIP. In this embodiment, it is shown that the tip section 15 in this mounted position is arranged in a plane different from both the first and second mounting plane FMP, SNIP. Fig. 1D further shows that the tip point 16 in the mounted situation of the truss connector brace is positioned in a tip plane TP at a distance of 0.1-50 mm, or more preferred 0.5-30 mm or even more preferred 1-10 mm from the first mounting plane FMP measured perpendicular to the first mounting plane FMP. It is to be understood that that the tip plane TP is positioned i.e. the tip point 16 is located a distance dl in the direction from the second side 8 of the first mounting section 6. The second mounting section 9 is arranged in an angle a of 85-95° in relation to the first mounting plane FMP, i.e. in relation to the first mounting section 6. In the mounted state, the forces f from the trusses, i.e. the roof structure, acting on the truss connector braces 1 are primarily along the longitudinal direction LD (shown in Fig. 1A) of the truss connector braces 1.

Figs. 1A-1C show that the connection section 5 of the end bracket(s) 2, 3 comprises at least a first positioning wall 17 portion arranged substantially perpendicular second side of the connection section 5. The first positioning wall 17 facilitates that the intermediate member 4 is easily positioned in relation to the end bracket. In an embodiment, the connection section of end bracket(s) may comprise two partitioning walls.

The end brackets 2, 3 are each formed of one piece of metal, i.e. formed of a single piece of metal. However, it is to be understood that the brackets could be made from plastic or composite materials. In the shown embodiment of the end brackets 2, 3, the connection section 5 comprises a stop 25 for positioning the intermediate member 4 in relation to the end bracket. In this way, the intermediate member 4 may be pushed against the stop 25 and then the worker connecting the end bracket 2, 3, and the intermediate member 4 will know that, in the mounted position, the distance between the end face of the intermediate member 21 and the second side 11 of the second mounting section 9 is correct. The correct distances is in relation to the thickness of the truss 20 i.e. the distance from the first side 22 of the truss and an opposing second side 23 of the truss 20.

Fig. 2 shows a truss 20 having two truss connector braces 1 connected. The truss connector braces are connected in the one end to the truss 20 before lifting the truss into the position from where it will be pivoted or slid into its installed position. In this way, the worker may safely connect the truss connector brace 1 to the truss to be installed while the truss is still on the ground and thereafter install the truss using the truss connector brace. Hence, it is seen that in this situation the truss connector braces 1 connected to the truss 20 have an end bracket 3 connected to the truss 20 and an end bracket 2 not yet connected to a truss. It is to be understood that the free end bracket 2 is identical to end brackets 2 previously discussed as well as end brackets 3 previously discussed.

Fig. 3 shows in a perspective view a roof structure 30 comprising a number of trusses 20 and truss connector braces 1. For the sake of easing the understanding on truss is denoted 20' but its build-up is fully identical to the other trusses 20. The tilted truss 20' is about to be installed, i.e. erected to a fully up-right position. Hence, it is seen that in this situation the truss connector braces 1' connected to the tilted truss 20' have an end bracket 3 connected to the truss 20' and a free end bracket 2' not yet connected to a truss 20. The end bracket 2' not yet connected to a truss is named the free end bracket 2'. However, it is to be understood that the free end bracket 2' is identical to end brackets 2 previously discussed as well as end brackets 3 previously discussed. The truss 20' is in the process of being pivoted and thereby brought in connection with a truss 20 already installed. The truss connector braces 1' and a positioning bracket 31 arranged to stop the heel 32 of the truss 20' forms a system for erecting a truss. When the system comprises the positioning bracket 31, and the truss connector braces 1 are arranged to be connected to a precious truss 20 by pivoting or sliding, the safety of the workers handling the trusses during the installation process is significantly raised.

Fig. 4 shows a sideview of the situation in Fig. 3 where the truss connector brace 1 connected to the truss 20' by end bracket 3 and the truss connector brace 1 having a free end bracket 2'. It is shown that the truss 20' is pivoting at the heel 32 of the truss 20' in the direction of the erecting arrow EA. The heel 32 is brought in contact with the positioning bracket 31 affixed to the bearing 35. Since the positioning bracket 31 stops the truss 20' from sliding on the bearing 35, pivoting the truss 20' in the direction of the erecting arrow EA, the free end bracket 2' will be brought in contact with the previous erected truss 20 and the truss 20' and the previous erected truss 20 will be connected. It is understood that a positioning bracket 31 may be present at both heels 32.

Fig. 5A-5F show a step by step the installation process when pivoting the truss 20' to become connected with the truss 20 via the truss connector brace 1. Fig. 5A is a perspective view of the initial situation illustrating the connection process. Figs. 5B-5F show a sideview of the steps in the installation process, i.e. the process of connecting two trusses by pivoting the truss to be installed.

Fig. 5B is the same position as shown in Fig. 5A. In Fig. 5B the free end bracket 2' is not yet in contact with the truss 20. However, it is seen that the free end bracket 2' has the sufficient space between the end face 21 of the intermediate member 4 and the second mounting section 11 to receive the truss 20.

In Fig. 5C, the free end bracket 2' is brought into contact with the truss 20 due to the pivoting of the truss 20' around the heel point (not shown). Since the pivoting process is not yet completed but the free end bracket 2' is in contact with the truss 20, a first direction of movement of the free end bracket 2' will start in the first direction movement shown by the arrow FDM, i.e. along the longitudinal direction of the truss connector brace 1. This process is continued in Fig. 5D, and the free end bracket 2' will continue to slide on the top surface of the truss 20 due to the continued pivoting of the truss 20'.

Fig. 5E shows the position of the truss connector brace 1 where the positioning section 12 as well as the second mounting section 9 have passed the truss 20, and the free end bracket 2' is positioned so as to start to move in a second direction of movement indicated by arrow SDM. When the free end bracket 2' starts to move in the direction of arrow SDM, i.e. the second direction of movement, the free end bracket 2' in combination with the end of the intermediate member 4 starts to connect the truss connector brace 1 with the truss 20 due to the truss sliding positing between the second mounting section and the end face 21 of the intermediate member 4. In this embodiment, the intermediate member 4 has a cross-sectional dimension larger than the area of the second mounting section 9.

Hence, the end face 21 will act as a stop and thereby stop the movement of the truss connector brace 1 in the first direction of movement FDM. Due to the truss 20' not yet having pivoted fully to its up-right position, the continued pivoting of the truss 20' will cause continued movement of the free end bracket 2'. Due to slip and/or a flexibility in the truss connector brace 1, e.g. in the brackets 2' and 3, the truss connector brace allows an increase of the angle between the two second mounting sections 9 of end brackets 2' and 3 of up to 5D. In this way, it is ensued that the truss connector brace 1 forces itself into position when the free end bracket 2' is positioned to move along the second direction of movement i.e. the position depicted in Fig. 5E.

Finally, as shown in Fig. 5F, the pivoting process is completed and the free end bracket 2' is in its end position, i.e. where the first and second mounting sections are positioned substantially in contact with the truss 20. In this position, the free end bracket 2' may be secured to the truss 20 by nails or screws using the holes in the first mounting section (not visible -see Fig. 1D).

Similar to the pivoting process shown in Figs. 5A-5F it is possible to connect two trusses using a truss connector brace 1 according to the invention by sliding a truss along the bearing 35.

Figs. 6A-6G show the installation process step by step when sliding the truss 20' along the bearing 35 to become connected with the truss 20 via the truss connector brace 1. Fig. 6A is a perspective view of the initial situation illustrating the connection process. The truss to be installed 20' is positioned in a substantially upright position, and the positioning bracket is installed at the desired distance to the already installed truss 20. It is understood that the distance from the positioning bracket 31 to the already installed truss 20 should be the same as the length of the truss connector brace 1 the length being measured between the second mounting section of each of the end brackets 2', 3. In this way, the truss 20' will be positioned in a fully up-right position when finally installed. Figs. 6B-6G show a sideview of the steps in the installation process, i.e. the process of connecting two trusses by sliding the truss to be installed 20' along the bearing 35.

Fig. 6B is the same position as shown in Fig. 6A, and in this position the free end bracket 2' is not yet in contact with the truss 20. However, it is seen that the free end bracket 2' has sufficient space between the end face 21 of the intermediate member 4 and the second mounting section 11 to receive the truss 20.

In Fig. 6C, the free end bracket 2' is brought into contact with the truss 20 due to the sliding of the truss 20' in the first direction of movement indicated by arrow FDM. The first direction movement shown by the arrow FDM is a movement along the longitudinal direction of the truss connector brace 1 (see Fig. 1A). The truss 20' is slid along the bearing 35 (not shown). The tip section of the positioning section is brough into contact with the truss 20, and due to the slanted and/or curved outline of the positioning section, the end bracket 2' is caused to move in a second direction of movement indicated by arrow SDM. This means that the second side 14 of the positioning section 12 of the free end bracket 2' is sliding on the truss 20, lifting the free end bracket 2'. The free end bracket 2' is moved in the second direction of movement SDM, i.e. lifting the free end bracket 2' and hence lifting the whole free end of the truss connector brace 1. It is to be understood that the term "free end" is defined as an end not yet in position having the first and second mounting sections substantially in contact with a truss. The positioning section 12 is resiliently connected to the second mounting section 9 in order to provide a smooth transition during the movement in the first direction FDM when in contact with the truss 20 and during the movement in both the first and second direction FDM, SDM.

The sliding movement in the first direction, i.e. in the direction of the arrow FDM, is continued in Fig. 6D, and it is shown that the free end bracket 2' is fully positioned on the top of the truss 20.From the situation in Fig. 6C to the situation in Fig. 6D, the free end bracket 2' has been forced to slide along the second surface of the positioning section 12. From this position, the free end bracket 2' does not move further in the second direction of movement SDM but continues to move in the direction of the first movement FDM. The continued movement in the direction of the first movement FDM is seen in Fig. 6E, where the free end bracket 2' has been slid across the top surface of the truss and now the free end bracket 2' is positioned on the other side of the truss 20.

Fig. 6F shows the position of the truss connector brace 1 where the positioning section 12 as well as the second mounting section 9 have passed the truss 20, and the free end bracket 2' is positioned so as to start to move in a third direction of movement indicated by arrow TDM. The third direction of movement TDM is opposite the second direction of movement SDM. When the free end bracket 2' starts to move in the direction of arrow TDM, i.e. the third direction of movement, the free end bracket 2' in combination with the end 21 of the intermediate member 4 starts to connect the truss connector brace 1 with the truss 20 due to the truss sliding in positing between the second mounting section and the end face 21 of the intermediate member 4. In this embodiment, the intermediate member 4 has a cross-sectional dimension larger than the area of the second mounting section 9.

Hence, the end face 21 will act as a stop, thereby stopping the movement of the truss connector brace 1 in the first direction of movement FDM. Due to the truss 20' being positioned fully in its up-right position, a force is exerted on free end bracket 2' of the truss connector brace 1 and this will cause continued movement of the free end bracket 2' in the third direction of movement TDM. The truss connector brace is able to be in the position shown in Figs. 6D-6F due to overall slip or play and/or a flexibility in the truss connector brace 1. The slip or play and/or flexibility arises from e.g. in the brackets 2' and 3 and hence, the truss connector brace 1 allows for increasing the angle between the two second mounting sections 9 of end brackets 2' and 3 of up to 5 '). In this way, it is ensued that the truss connector brace 1 forces itself into position when the free end bracket 2' is positioned to move along the third direction of movement TDM, i.e. the position depicted in Fig. 6F. In fact, in the position shown in Fig. 6F, the actual sliding process is finalised, but the free end bracket 2' is not yet shown in its final position. Hence, the position shown in Fig. 6F is a somewhat theoretical position since the free end bracket 2' will immediately start to move in the third direction of movement TDM when the second mounting section 9 of the free end bracket 2' has been slid past the truss 20.

Finally, as shown in Fig. 6G, the positioning process is completed, and the free end bracket 2' is in its end position, i.e. where the first and second mounting sections 6, 9 are positioned substantially in contact with the truss 20. In this position, the free end bracket 2' may be secured to the truss 20 by nails or screws using the holes in the first mounting section (not visible). Furthermore, the heel of the truss may be secured by screws or nails to the positioning bracket (not shown).

Fig. 7 shows the for trusses 20 connected by three truss connector braces 1. It is to be noted that in the final position of the trusses 20 there are no difference in position whether the trusses have been brought in their final position by a sliding process or a pivoting process. In other words, the end result using the truss connector brace 1 according to the present invention is the same regardless of the process towards the end result.

Although the invention has been described above in connection with preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be evident to a person skilled in the art that several modifications are conceivable without departing from the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims and drawings), may be replaced by an alternative feature(s) serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features. In addition, all of the features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Accordingly, while many different embodiments of the present invention have been described above, with preferred features, any one or more or all of the features described, illustrated and/or claimed in the appended claims may be used in isolation or in various combinations in any embodiment. As such, any one or more feature may be removed, substituted and/or added to any of the feature combinations described, illustrated and/or claimed. For the avoidance of doubt, any one or more of the features of any embodiment may be combined and/or used separately in a different embodiment with any other feature or features from any of the embodiments.

As such, the true scope of the invention is that set out in the appended claims.

Claims

Claims 1. Truss connector brace (1) for facilitating erecting roof trusses by sliding the brace into connection with a truss, the truss connector brace comprising: -a first end bracket, - a second end bracket, and - an intermediate member connecting the first end bracket to the second end bracket, wherein each of the first and second bracket comprises: -a connecting section arranged forjoining the end bracket to an intermediate member, - a first mounting section having a first side and an opposing second side, the first and second side defining a first mounting plane, - a second mounting section connected to the first mounting section, the second mounting section having a first side and a second side, the first and second side defining a second mounting plane arranged in an angle different from 0° in relation to the first mounting plane, and - a positioning section connected to the second mounting section, the positioning section having a first positioning side and a second positioning side and a tip section comprising a tip point arranged in a tip plane the tip plane being parallel to the first mounting plane, the tip plane being arranged a distance from the first mounting plane, and the tip section being arranged a distance from the second mounting plane.
2. A truss connector brace according to claim 1 wherein the tip point of the positioning section is arranged in a tip plane (TP) the tip plane (TP) being arranged parallel to first mounting plan a distance (d1) from the first mounting plane (FMP), the distance being measured perpendicular to the first mounting plane (FMP) in a direction parallel to the second mounting plane (SMP) and along the second mounting section.
3. A truss connector brace according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tip point (16) in the mounted situation of the truss connector brace is positioned in a plane 0.1-50mm, or more preferred 0.5-30mm or even more preferred 1-10 mm from the first mounting plane measured perpendicular to the first mounting plane.
4. A truss connector brace according to claim 1, 2 or 3 wherein the second mounting section is arranged in an angle of 85-95° in relation to the plane of the first mounting section.
5. A truss connector brace according to any of the preceding claims 1-4, wherein the connection section comprises at least a first positioning wall portion arranged substantially perpendicular to the second side of the connection section.
6. A truss connector brace according to any of the preceding claims 1-5, wherein the second end bracket is identical to the first end bracket.
7. A truss connector brace according to any of the preceding claims 1-6 wherein the intermediate member is made of a different material than the end brackets.
8. A truss connector brace according to any of the preceding claims 1-7, wherein the end brackets each are formed of one piece of metal i.e. formed of a single piece of metal.
9. A truss connector brace according to any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the positioning section is slanted, follows a curvature or follows a combination of a slanted and curved outline in relation to the second mounting section.
10.A truss connector brace according to any of the preceding claims 1-9, wherein the connection section and the first and/or second mounting section comprise holes arranged to receive fastening means such as screws or nails.
11.A truss connector brace according to any of the preceding claims 1-10, wherein the tip point of the positioning section in the mounted state of the truss connector brace is arranged a distance from the both the first mounting plane (FMP) and the second mounting plane (SMP).
12.A truss connector brace according to any of the preceding claims 1-11, wherein the connection section and/or the first mounting section comprises embossed areas.
13.A truss connector brace according to any of the preceding claims 1-12, wherein the second side of the connection section and/or the first side of the mounting section comprises a stop for positioning the intermediate member in relation to the end bracket.
14. System for erecting trusses (20) for a roof structure, the system comprising the truss connecting brace according to claims 1-13, wherein the system further comprises one or more positioning brackets (31) arranged to position the heel of the truss (32) during the erection of the truss (20).
15. Method of manufacturing the end brackets (2,3) according to claims 1-14 wherein the manufacturing process is carried out in a multistage punching process.